Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Hello! I am a Fantasy and Paranormal Romance author from the Central Coast of California. My books are mainly aimed at a children’s or young adult audience, but many of my readers are my age or older. I have written twelve books in two different series. The Otherworld series tells the story of Meghan Elam, a junior in high school who learns she is from the Celtic Otherworld. This series is set in my home town of Arroyo Grande and incorporates Celtic mythology. My Oescienne series tells the story of Jahrra, a human infant found and raised by dragons in world where her kind no longer exist. The Legend of Oescienne books are an epic fantasy series.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The name of my latest book is Faeleahn, a novella in the Otherworld series. A large part of why I wrote this short novel has much to do with the feedback from my readers. After finishing the first three books of my Otherworld series, many of my readers expressed they wanted to hear more from my characters. Faeleahn picks up where Luathara (the third book) leaves off.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I wouldn’t say I have any unusual habits. I do have preferences, however. I like to write early in the morning, if possible, and I enjoy listening to instrumental music. A nice cup of tea is always a plus as well.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Early on in my career, I found myself very much inspired by J.K. Rowling. Over the years I’ve been inspired by Sherwood Smith, Sharon Shinn, Maria V. Snyder, Ilona Andrews, Amanda Hocking and Rick Riordan. These authors, and their books, have either inspired me to create my own works or have given me ideas for future book projects.
What are you working on now?
Currently I am working on another Otherworld novel, Faeborne. I’m also working on The Legend of Oescienne – The Ascending (the fourth book in the Oescienne series). Both books are finished but need to be read through by me once or twice more before heading to my editor.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I use Facebook a lot to post information, giveaways and news, and I send out a newsletter once every few months. BookBub has been a great website for spreading the word about my free ebooks in the past. I also use Pinterest to collect images to represent my worlds. I also host a book giveaway every now and then on Goodreads.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Don’t give up. It is hard to get started, especially when you are unknown. Keep writing and be patient. Establish an online presence and be open to taking criticism from readers. Just keep your dreams in sight and never lose your passion to write.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
You can’t please everyone, so first and foremost, write for yourself. And write for those dedicated readers who love your characters as much as you do.
What are you reading now?
I just finished listening to the audio edition of Ever Shade by Alexia Purdy. On my Kindle I’m reading Threshold, the follow up to Widdershins by Jordan L. Hawk. Great books!
What’s next for you as a writer?
Finish up the manuscripts for Faeborne and The Legend of Oescienne – The Ascending and move on to the next project, hopefully some more Otherworld books. So many book ideas with such limited time!
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
Poison Study by Maria V. Snyder, my giant, unabridged dictionary, my Writer’s Thesaurus and a huge, empty journal. Can I take pens and pencils, too?
Author Websites and Profiles
Jenna Elizabeth Johnson Website
Jenna Elizabeth Johnson Amazon Profile
Jenna Elizabeth Johnson Author Profile on Smashwords
Jenna Elizabeth Johnson’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
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